Anti-Trump 'No Kings' Protests Spread Across Nation

Multiple groups held demonstrations in Washington, D.C., on Saturday to oppose President Donald Trump’s military parade, with the “No Kings” protests emerging as the most visible and spreading across numerous states.

Protests against Trump and his administration’s policies have been ongoing, particularly after he ordered the deployment of the National Guard and Marines to Los Angeles when some immigration demonstrations turned violent.

While most gatherings in Los Angeles remained peaceful, some protesters engaged in property damage, looting, and assaults on law enforcement. Trump’s decision to send in troops, against the objections of California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, further escalated tensions with Democratic leaders.

Saturday’s protests were largely calm overall, with limited engagement between demonstrators and police. However, by late afternoon, friction grew in both Los Angeles and New York City, leading to scattered clashes. The demonstrations were expected to continue into the night.

Los Angeles Remains at the Center of Unrest

Although protests in Los Angeles have mostly avoided violence, the city remains on edge as federal forces stay in place. Trump secured a temporary legal victory when the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an injunction blocking an earlier order to return control of the National Guard to the state, pending a final decision after upcoming arguments on Tuesday.

Beyond California, New York City has seen the next-highest level of tension, with several protesters taken into custody.

Puerto Rico Joins the Movement

In a rare show of solidarity, Puerto Rico also staged protests in San Juan, where residents marched against Trump’s immigration policies.

Many of the largest demonstrations have occurred in cities with substantial Hispanic communities, reflecting deep anxiety over deportation threats.

In Austin, Texas, protesters embraced creativity, staging drag queen performances and poetry readings in parks, evoking scenes reminiscent of 1970s anti–Vietnam War protests.

Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, saw demonstrators gather to hear speakers call for honoring the nation’s founding principles amid current political turmoil.